I haven't found a direct answer, does the vista MCE remote work with Windows XP?
http://www.xpcgear.com/remotevista.html
http://www.xpcgear.com/remotevista.html
to take full advantage of the mce remote you will need the mce windows
I am certain that you get more out of the MCE remote (or any other remotes) by using and-81's plugin(s).